Paper round-up: Arsenal linked with Germany midfielder

Arsenal are interested in Hoffenheim midfielder Kerem Demirbay, according to the Evening Standard.

The Germany international is well known to Arsenal’s head of recruitment Sven Mislintat, who joined the club from Borussia Dortmund and reportedly regards him as a potential signing.

The Standard say Arsenal face competition from Liverpool, who have also been linked with Demirbay.

It is claimed that the 24-year-old, who made his Germany debut at last summer’s Confederations Cup, could be available for around £20m this summer.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are reportedly close to signing highly rated Dutch teenager Jayden Braaf from PSV Eindhoven.

The 15-year-old forward has played six times for the Netherlands at Under-15 level and is said to have attracted interest from several clubs.

Stefano van Delden, who is Braaf’s uncle and also acts as the player’s agent, is quoted by The Sun as saying: “We have reached an agreement in principle for Jayden to join Chelsea.

“But it is a verbal agreement. Nothing has yet been put in writing.”

The Sun declare that Chelsea are set to beat Manchester United and Manchester City to the signing of Braaf.

West Ham are among the other clubs said to have also shown an interest in him.